The 3 Most Positive Developments of the Detroit Lions' Offseason

With the Detroit Lion's offseason flooded with off-field violations, a scuffle during practice, and now, contract dispute, it's difficult identifying progression with this team. Glaring signs such as these must be corrected as soon as possible for this young team to take the next step.

However, the Lions are still one of the best teams in the NFC and one of the top up-and-coming franchises. Even with all the well-documented negativity, Detroit has made some positive actions this offseason. 

The following three developments won't have direct impact this coming year, but they provide stability and hope for the future.

Here are the three most positive developments for this Detroit this offseason.

1. Megatron Contract Extension

The Lions couldn't afford to let Calvin Johnson test free agency after his final year under contract. With that in mind, Martin Mayhew made Johnson the highest-paid receiver in NFL history with a seven-year contract extension worth $132 million and $60 million guaranteed.

As steep as the price tag may be, Megatron is worth every penny. Johnson maximized his potential last season with a healthy Matthew Stafford under center. The two connected on 96 catches for 1,681 yards and 16 touchdowns, forming arguably the most lethal quarterback-receiver tandem. 

Last year, Cris Carter said Johnson wasn't a top-five wide receiver but has finally seen the light. According to the Detroit Free Press, Carter called Megatron the "NFL's most dangerous weapon," after witnessing Johnson dominate last season. Megatron is finally silencing his critics, and more importantly, helping the Lions win football games.

Johnson evolved as a receiver last season improving many other aspects of his game. After learning to play the slot, open-field blocking and catching passes across the middle, Megatron is as good as ever.

Knowing he'll be in Detroit for the long haul is exactly what the Lions need. 

2. Broyles Recovering from Injury

The Lions took a gamble when drafting Ryan Broyles in the second round of this year's draft.

Coming off an ACL injury at Oklahoma and Detroit not drafting for defense, it's clear the Lions have big plans for Broyles, knowing his recovery from injury is a step in the right direction for the Lion's future.

According to Tim Twentyman of DetroitLions.com, offensive coordinator Scott Linehan called Broyles a "chain mover," meaning he should see a good deal of action early.

Broyles is a crisp route runner able to create separation off the line of scrimmage. Broyles has great hands and will be a great third-down option for Matthew Stafford.

Nick Fairley and Titus Young fell casualty to early-offseason injuries stunting their development and continuity with the team. Young came along much better than Fairley as far as production goes.

Detroit doesn't need the same concerns with Broyles who continues to recover from injury. Stafford and Broyles will need to develop their timing and rhythm together before the regular season.

With Broyles healthy, it's just one more weapon for an already dangerous offense.  

3. Jim Schwartz Extension

The Lions' offseason drama shows their lack of discipline, leadership and maturity. Nobody has more responsibility in correcting these errors than Jim Schwartz.

Schwartz has taken the Lions from a winless-mockery to a perennial playoff contender. Even with Detroit's failure to focus on football this offseason, it would be foolish to not re-sign Schwartz. He's the best man for the job and has a chance to take Detroit to places this franchise has never seen.

Schwartz, however, must clean up his track record of puzzling actions. Whether it's the verbal war with Dez Bryant at Dallas or the handshake heard around the world with Jim Harbaugh, Schwartz must learn to lead by example. Fire and energy are great to see from a head coach, but not in the manner Schwartz displayed last season. 

Defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham and offensive coordinator Scott Linehan also received contract extensions this offseason, maintaining order and continuity within the Lions coaching staff.

The Lions haven't had such stability with their staff in many year. With the positive direction of this franchise, it's common sense to keep all coaches together.